Discover the Ancient Sounds of China: Instruments Kids Will Love

Ancient Chinese believed music could purify the heart and calm the mind. With over 70 traditional musical instruments spanning string, wind, and percussion categories, Chinese music is a window into centuries of cultural evolution. Here are ten instruments that children may enjoy learning about:

Xun
One of the oldest instruments, the xun dates back over 7,000 years. Originally a hunting tool made from bone or stone, it produced whistling sounds as it flew through the air. Today, xuns are made of clay and played like a flute.

Chinese Chimes
Made from metal, these chimes are tile-shaped and decorated with carvings of dragons, beasts, and people. Striking them in different places produces two distinct high-pitched notes.

Xiao
A vertical bamboo flute with 6–8 holes, the xiao is known for its soft, poetic sound. It is often described as evoking the feeling of a quiet, moonlit night.

Sheng
This wind instrument is made of bamboo pipes connected to a base with a mouthpiece. Originally used to accompany dance, the sheng is now part of Chinese orchestras.

Pipa
A pear-shaped lute with four strings and up to 26 frets, the pipa is held upright and played with picks attached to the fingers. A smaller version is called a liuqin.

Guzheng
This plucked zither has 18–23 strings and movable bridges. Its body was once made of bamboo and the strings of silk. It is used in both solo and ensemble music.

Guqin
A seven-stringed zither used in classical Chinese music. It is long and narrow with inlaid jade markers and made from catalpa wood.

Erhu
A two-stringed fiddle that is played vertically. Known as the “Chinese violin,” it is used in both traditional and modern compositions.

Drums
Drums have been part of Chinese rituals, farming, and military life for over 3,500 years. They are still used in celebrations and performances.

Bamboo Flute (Dizi)
A lightweight, side-blown flute with a blowhole and several finger holes. The dizi is commonly made from white or purple bamboo and features prominently in folk and classical music.

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